With starting center Travis Swanson and guard Joe Dahl both missing this past Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons, it comes as no surprise that the Detroit Lions will reportedly sign an offensive lineman to help out with their lack of depth.
According to a tweet from @bbuffa_WMU, former Grand Valley State University guard Tim Lelito is returning home and will play for the Lions. The news was broke, as you can see below, by Lelito’s foundation, via Facebook.
Rather a large story: @timlelito68's foundation has announced he will depart from TEN and return home to DET. @gvsufootball/SCHS alum. pic.twitter.com/POOvt9a9jE
— Detroit vs. Everybody (@wari0world) September 25, 2017
The report seems to have been confirmed by Justin Rogers of The Detroit News, who claims a team source has said the signing will likely become official on Tuesday.
Confirmed with a team source. Main roster spot, likely made official tomorrow. https://t.co/Ti2LnywmBz
— Justin Rogers | Detroit News (@Justin_Rogers) September 25, 2017
Lelito, who was born in Rochester, and played his high school ball at St. Clair, originally signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2013 and remained there until he was cut following the 2016 season. Though he was mostly a backup, Lelito did start 24 out of 63 games in his four seasons with the Saints, blocking for future Hall of Fame quarterback, Drew Brees.
Lions general manager Bob Quinn has had his eye on Lelito for some time now and even took the time to work Lelito out this past March.
With the Lions being short-handed on the offensive line, Lelito could be forced into game action as early as this Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. That, of course, will all depend on whether or not Swanson can give it a go or if he will have to miss more time.
Assuming the move is made official on Tuesday, there will also be a corresponding move to make room on the roster.